Keri Hilson is under fire for her comments about censorship in the wake of Donald Trump’s social media ban.
The R&B singer shared her thoughts after Twitter permanently suspended the president from its platform on Friday (Jan. 8). Taking to Instagram, Hilson explained why the move sets a “dangerous” precedent and violates freedom of speech.
“This may be funny, but it is a little dangerous too. Take Trump out of it for a moment,” wrote Hilson. “A democracy must include freedom of speech. Imagine other leaders or popular figures not being able to voice their opinion if it opposes the majority of world leaders…Our freedom of speech being taken from us. Slowly but surely (censorship).”
She continued to argue why Trump’s ban could lead to further censorship and manipulation by big tech. “If the leader of the ‘Free world’ can be removed. Imagine that same right of civilians. Imagine believing every time you read ‘False information detected’ and propaganda [sic]. Deceptive reports. And flat out lies being the only thing we see.”
But Miss Keri got knocked down for her unpopular opinion, with many arguing that Twitter has the right to ban Trump from its platform. “Twitter and other companies have the right to restrict or censor speech, as they are NOT government entities. That is NOT a violation of freedom of speech,” read one comment on The Shade Room, while another added, “[Trump] abused his freedom of speech to incite violence.”
On Friday (Jan. 8), Twitter announced that it had permanently banned President Trump from its service “due to the risk of further incitement of violence” and that his tweets “were highly likely to encourage and inspire people to replicate the criminal acts that took place at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021,” referring to the violent siege of the Capitol by Trump supporters.
Facebook and Instagram have blocked Trump’s account from posting until at least Jan. 20, when President-elect Joe Biden will be sworn in.
Hilson has been known to be outspoken on social media. Last March, she stirred controversy after she shared a conspiracy theory connecting the coronavirus pandemic to the 5G cellular network.
Read some of social media’s reactions to Hilson’s comments below.
Keri hilson out here defending Donald Trump I’ve seen enough pic.twitter.com/6oDUXzWJGX
— im adopted (@camilaoutshined) January 10, 2021
Somebody send this clip to Keri Hilson, Kirstie Alley and all the other celebs incorrectly using “freedom of speech” to defend Trump’s tweets.
— Jessica Fyre ? (@TheJessieWoo) January 10, 2021
Kamala said this a year ago.#ListenToBlackWomen pic.twitter.com/TTHSBwLYIy
Keri Hilson has been doing a lot on the internet lately. Between her saying 5G caused the coronavirus, the trolling pregnancy picture and now believing Trump’s Twitter deactivation goes against freedom of speech… is everything okay at home, sis?
— ᴅᴏʟʟᴀʀ (@callmedollar) January 10, 2021
y’all on Keri Hilson, but she got a point fr . She never said she supports trump , but her logic behind censorship is valid . She was speaking in general .
— Sierra Parker (@sierrra_parker) January 10, 2021